Metformin as a new therapy for endometriosis, its effects on both clinical picture and cytokines profile

BackgroundMetformin has both anti-inflammatory properties and a modulatory effect on ovarian steroid production. To the best of our knowledge, no studies have yet examined the effects of metformin therapy on patients with endometriosis.ObjectiveTo determine the effects of metformin therapy on the patient’s complaints and on the serum levels of some cytokines.PopulationSixty-nine infertile patients were diagnosed by diagnostic laparoscopy to have stages 1 & 2 endometriosis. They were subdivided into a control group and a treated group.MethodsAnalysis of IL-6, IL-8 and VEGF levels using ELISA kits.Main study outcomeThe effects of metformin therapy on the serum IL-6, IL-8 and VEGF levels after 3 and 6 months were compared with the control group (non-treated cases).ResultsMetformin therapy resulted in a significant reduction in the patient’s complaints (P < 0.01) and in the serum levels of IL-6, IL-8 & VEGF.ConclusionMetformin therapy in patients with endometriosis resulted in a significant reduction in the symptomatic cases, increased chance of pregnancy, and a decrease in the levels of serum cytokines, suggesting that it may have a therapeutic potential as an anti-endometriotic drug.